Persistent Burning Sensation
Gender: Male Age: 37 years Height: 184 cm Weight: 83 kg Lifestyle Choices: Non-smoker Alcohol Consumption: Drinks beer occasionally Exercise: Engages in workouts 3 to 5 times a week Overview: I generally practice intermittent fasting for approximately 15 to 16 hours by skipping breakfast and have maintained this routine for a long time without issues. Recently, I attempted a 21-hour fast, which concluded with two chicken wraps. This led to a significant stomach ache that subsided after I got some rest. Two days post-fast, I experienced an unusual sensation accompanied by mild discomfort in the upper right region of my abdomen. This occurred about a week and a half ago. Currently, I have a persistent burning feeling in my right abdominal muscle, or possibly between the upper abdominal muscles. Interestingly, this sensation only manifests when I lightly touch the area; there’s no discomfort when I leave it alone or even when applying pressure. Has anyone else encountered this, and what could it possibly be?
Answers (1)
6/30/2025, 2:01:26 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a persistent burning sensation in your abdomen, especially after adjusting your fasting routine and experiencing discomfort. There are several potential reasons for this sensation, and while many can be benign, it's important to monitor your symptoms.
Main Points:
- Potential causes include muscle strain, digestive issues, or mild irritation from fasting or the types of food consumed.
- Since you are only experiencing pain upon touch and not during regular activities or pressure, this often indicates a localized issue rather than something systemic.
Explanation:
The burning sensation you feel in your upper right abdomen could be related to various factors:
- Muscle Strain: Engaging in workouts or physical activities can sometimes lead to muscle strain, which can cause localized discomfort.
- Digestive Issues: After lengthy fasting, your digestive system may react differently to food. Eating wraps, especially if spicy or heavy, might irritate the stomach lining or cause gas.
- Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from deeper structures can present as discomfort in the skin or muscles above.
Given that the discomfort is localized and does not worsen significantly with pressure, it may not be a serious condition. However, it is still wise to observe your symptoms closely.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the sensation. Note if it worsens, changes in nature (more severe discomfort), or if new symptoms arise (such as fever, nausea, or changes in bowel habits).
-
Rest and Modify Activity: Allow your body to rest and be gentle with the area. Avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate the discomfort.
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Diet Considerations: Gradually reintroduce foods after a fast, starting with lighter options that are easier to digest. If you experience discomfort with certain foods, consider avoiding them for now.
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Pain Relief: If the burning sensation is bothersome, over-the-counter pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective, but always follow the recommended dosages.
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Hydration: Ensure you are adequately hydrated, especially after fasting, as this can support your digestive system.
If the burning sensation persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or if you develop any new concerning symptoms, seeking further evaluation would be prudent. Take care of yourself, and keep track of how your body responds.
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